Juan Formell, heart of Cuban big band orchestra Los Van Van, dies at 71
HAVANA – Cuban musician Juan Formell, who for more than four decades was the driving force behind the big band salsa orchestra Los Van Van, has died. He was 71.
Formell’s death was announced Thursday night on Cuban state television. An anchor said he died “suddenly” but did not give details on the cause.
Formell received a Latin Grammy in 2013 for excellence, on top of another one in 1999 recognizing the album “Llego … Los Van Van.”
He said last year on receiving the award that he had dedicated his life to music.
Juan Climaco Formell Cortina was born Aug. 2, 1942.
In his long career he was a band director, bassist, composer, singer and producer.
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